Top Tips for Business Travellers

Many of our Consultants travel extensively so we thought you might be interested in some top travel tips before your next business journey.

1) Pack the right things -- and leave the superfluous items at home.

When travelling, it’s always best to pack as light as possible. Bring one or two pairs of versatile shoes, and articles of clothing that can mix and match well. A pair of brightly coloured trousers might be a great statement piece, but if you’ll be at that conference for five days, they won’t be as useful as black slacks you can re-wear.

In the same vein, unless you need to have a specific type of soap or shampoo, it’s a safe bet to leave most of your toiletries behind. Not only do they add bulk and weight to your luggage, but it’s often redundant to bring amenities since hotels provide their own. Check ahead with your hotel to find out which items will be included and available upon request, and then decide what to bring.

Braving baggage claim can be a nightmare, especially when you’re exhausted and ready to get to your hotel room. In addition, many airlines charge extra to check a bag. Especially if you’re on a short trip, it’s just not worth it.

So keep it minimal by downsizing to a more compact bag. Most major retailers carry luggage specifically designed to pass airlines’ carry-on luggage size restrictions. Just bear in mind that different airlines do have slightly differing standards for luggage size, so make sure to confirm any limitations before you fly.

3) Get pre-approved and skip lines.

Many airlines offer you the chance to do it online – take the time and do just that – it saves considerable wear and tear on nerves in length queues

4) Be crystal clear on claimable expense guidelines.

Before you jet off for business travel, make sure you have a clear idea of what costs can be reclaimed – check with your accountant if not sure before splashing out on a cut price business suit

And don’t count on saving all your receipts in a folder or large envelope. Keeping digital records of your purchases will make your bookkeeper’s life infinitely easier. There are a multitude of mobile apps that will allow you to quickly scan and save digital copies of all your records. Lifehacker has a handy list of some of the best mobile scanning apps -- check it out before you fly out.

5) Go digital.

The age of printed MapQuest directions and physical Rolodexes is over. Not only are printed materials unsustainable, but they also take up valuable space and are generally annoying to carry around.

This is especially true at conferences or multi-stop trips, where the sheer volume of business cards, boarding passes, and notes you’ll accumulate begs to be organized digitally. It doesn’t matter if you’re scouting out a restaurant for a business dinner or taking quick notes -- this list of the apps every business person should have on their phone will make your business travel easier, every time.

6) Loyalty pays -- literally.

Frequenting the same airlines, hotel chains, and car rental companies will benefit you in the long run. You’ll be racking up points and miles no matter where you choose to spend your money, so why not accumulate them on one or two accounts and cash in? Rewards that you can look forward to by giving all your business to a single provider include free airline upgrades and a dedicated concierge lounge.

7) Make restaurant reservations ahead of time.

It can be hard to book last-minute tables for business lunches or dinners at popular spots, so make sure you reserve in advance. Having to explain to a client you’re courting that you won’t be able to eat until 10:30 p.m. because you forgot to make a reservation isn’t exactly professional. Even if you’re just wining and dining yourself, make a reservation -- or go hungry.